Description
Fans of legendary New Orleans musician Allen Toussaint may at first be surprised that, for his first album in over a decade, the producer, songwriter, and pianist would choose to forgo recording his own stellar material in favour of a collection of cover tunes. The songs here arent just any songs, however, but a rich selection of Big Easy standards, as interpreted by one of the citys most gifted musical sons. The resulting Joe Henry-produced gumbo draws upon all of Toussaints myriad musical experiences, but often focuses on his incredibly soulful piano playing. Even when other instruments take the lead (the trumpet on A Dear Old Southland, the clarinet on Just a Closer Walk With Thee) its the masters sublimely sensitive ivory tickling that stands out.
Recorded live in the studio with minimal instrumentation, and Henrys magic touch behind the mixing desk, the album captures Allen Toussaint at his most comfortable and intimate.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.